The literary world loses a great friend and author today of Bryce Courtenay, a great Australian novelist who unfortunately passed on this past Thursday (November 22nd, 2012).
Even though he was known for his Australian writings, Courtenay was from South Africa, and later migrated over to Australia after marrying his wife in 1959. After settling in Australia, Courtenay got involved in advertising, and was responsible for the creation Mortein’s mascot “Louis the Fly.”
In 1989, Courtenay published his first book The Power of One, and even though Courtenay worried that it would not successfully sell, this first book of his became one of Australia’s best-selling books written by any living author. This book was later turned into a film of the same title directed by John G. Avildsen.
On Thursday, November 2nd, 2012, Bryce Courtenay passed away at the age of 79 after suffering a battle with gastric cancer. Fans of Courtenay have left their condolences via Twitter:
Thanks for the reads Bryce Courtenay. RIP!!
RIP Bryce Courtenay – got your last book, ready for a rollicking good read. So sad you’re gone. 🙁
RIP Bryce Courtenay, thanks for the best stories and wonderful escapes. Truly a literary legend
RIP Bryce Courtenay. Fueled my love for South African authors, and inspired me with “The Power Of One”. Sad to hear of his passing.